Anyone w/children in college or pregnant during college..what were/are your experieces?

Question

If you were in college or even planning on going to graduate school, maybe even med school and you have a young child or having a child what are your experiences? Good or bad? Do you feel you would be more successful without? How do you juggle being a parent and school? Can you still be successful if you start a family while in college and before a career? Also, I am not considering single parents? This is based on if you were with or married to your significant other. What's your take?

Answer 1

I was pregnant during my last semester of college. I was occasionally gone for doctor visits and especially toward the end sitting in a desk was pretty uncomfortable but I was still able to focus and do well in my classes. I gave birth 2 weeks after finals. My advisor and department chair were pressuring me to go to grad school because I was such a good student but I felt like being a mom was more important to me at that point. I now have a BA in sociology and stay home full time with my daughter and I love it. I know I could always go back to school later if I want but I am appreciating my time as a mother right now.

I think the major things to consider are 1. Do you have enough support from husband/family/friends? and 2. Do you plan on staying home at all with your children?

You will obviously have to divide your attention between school and family and you will need to be able to get time to yourself to focus on your school work. Your husband especially should know how important it is that you get enough time to do this. Also, if you plan on staying home... even taking 6 months to a year off... you have to realize that in the working world that is a gap in your resume that will need explaining. That doesn't mean it will be impossible to find a job but it is a factor. Usually volunteer work or professional memberships will help you in that situation.

I think overall if you are willing to put in the work and you are dedicated to your professional career... but not so committed that you won't give your family the time of day... then go for it.